Markets

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This is not 2008

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Is it 2008 all over again? Should we be worried about the financial system collapsing?

Deep breath. Let's discuss.

On March 10th, Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a bank catering to startups, closed its doors after it could no longer cover withdrawals. (1)

Days later, regulators also took over Signature Bank.

There's reason to believe a number of other banks may be in trouble. (2) Rising interest rates are hitting many banking portfolios hard, and weaknesses are emerging.

Should we be panicked about these bank failures?

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Let's Skip That 70s (Inflation) Show

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With markets caught in a volatile pattern of selloffs and rallies, I thought I'd do a quick round-up of what we know (very little) and don't (a whole lot).

(Don't want to hear about markets right now? I've got you. Scroll down to my P.S. for something fascinating.)

Before I begin, I should say: if you're looking for perfect clarity, you won't find it here. From where I stand, the crystal ball looks murky.